Diabetes and Your Feet: What You Need to Know

Living with diabetes means being mindful of many aspects of your health — and your feet are no exception. I often meet patients who are surprised to learn just how much diabetes can affect foot health. This blog is here to shed light on why foot care matters, what to watch for, and how to stay ahead of potential problems.

Why Diabetes Affects the Feet

When blood sugar levels remain high over time, they can damage the nerves and blood vessels in your feet. This can lead to:

• Reduced sensation (Peripheral neuropathy) — making it harder to notice injuries like cuts or blisters

• Poor circulation — slowing down healing and increasing the risk of infection

Even a small issue, like a cracked heel or a tight-fitting shoe, can quickly become serious if left unchecked.

Some of the most frequent problems in diabetes include:

• Dry skin and fissures — which can allow bacteria to enter

• Foot ulcers — open wounds that can be slow to heal

• Fungal infections — such as athlete’s foot or nail infections

• Changes in foot shape — caused by nerve damage over time

In severe cases, untreated infections can lead to hospitalisation or even amputation. That’s why prevention is key.

Here are a few habits I recommend to all diabetic patients:

• Check your feet daily for any changes — redness, swelling, cuts, or blisters

• Wash and dry your feet carefully, especially between the toes

• Moisturise regularly to prevent cracking (but avoid the toe spaces)

• Trim nails straight across and file gently

• Wear soft, well-fitting socks and supportive shoes

• Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors

• Never use direct heat (like hot water bottles) to warm your feet

• Book regular podiatry check-ups to catch issues early

How can I help?

As a podiatrist, I provide comprehensive diabetic foot assessments to help prevent complications and support long-term foot health.

These assessments are a vital part of diabetes care. They allow me to check circulation, nerve function, skin integrity, and overall foot structure — all of which can be affected by diabetes. I also review footwear, offer tailored advice, and provide gentle treatments when needed.

My goal is to catch any issues early, offer clear guidance, and ensure every patient feels confident and cared for. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing diabetes long-term, regular podiatry check-ups are one of the best ways to protect your feet.

Why Won’t My Heel Pain Go Away?

Understanding Chronic Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain—affecting around 10% of people at some point in their lives. For many, it resolves with rest, stretching, and supportive footwear. But for others, the pain lingers. If you’ve been asking, “Why won’t my heel pain go away?”—this blog is for you.

What Makes Plantar Fasciitis Chronic?

Plantar fasciitis isn’t just an inflammation—it’s now understood as a degenerative condition. Over time, the fascia (the thick band of tissue under your foot) can develop microtears, collagen breakdown, and even nerve involvement. This means that rest alone may not be enough.

Factors that contribute include:

• Flat feet or high arches

• Poor footwear choices

• Repetitive strain from walking, running, or standing

• Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon

• Weight-bearing stress without proper support

When First-Line Treatments Aren’t Working

Most people start with:

• Stretching exercises

• Orthotic insoles

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Ice therapy

• Footwear changes

These are often helpful—but if your pain continues beyond 6–12 months, it’s time to explore further options.

Other non-surgical treatments include:

• Shockwave therapy to stimulate healing

• Night splints to gently stretch the fascia overnight

• Taping or strapping for temporary support

What About Injections or Surgery?

Surgery is usually reserved for patients who have tried everything else—those whose symptoms haven’t improved after nine to twelve months of conservative treatment, and whose daily life is significantly affected.

• Corticosteroid injections: Can reduce pain but may weaken the fascia over time

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): A regenerative option gaining popularity

• Surgical release: Reserved for severe, refractory cases—though it carries risks like arch instability and longer recovery

A Holistic Approach to Healing

At Accura Podiatry, I believe in treating the whole person—not just the foot. That means:

• Assessing your gait and biomechanics

• Reviewing lifestyle factors and stress levels

• Creating a calm, supportive environment for healing

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Your Treatment Plan

At Accura Podiatry, I take time to understand your lifestyle, symptoms, and foot mechanics before creating a treatment plan. It starts with a thorough assessment—looking at how you move, what shoes you wear, and what might be contributing to your pain.

Most plans begin with simple steps: stretching, footwear advice, and custom orthotics. If needed, we may add therapies like shockwave treatment or taping. And if things don’t improve, we’ll explore more advanced options together.

What Your Feet Say About Your Health

Subtle Signs. Powerful Clues.

Your feet do more than carry you through life—they can quietly reveal what’s happening inside your body. At Accura Podiatry, I believe in listening closely to these signs, because early awareness can make all the difference.

1. Cold Feet or Numbness

This could be a sign of poor circulation or nerve issues, such as peripheral neuropathy. It’s especially important to monitor if you have diabetes or vascular concerns.

2. Swollen Ankles or Feet

Swelling can be linked to fluid retention, heart or kidney issues, or even side effects from certain medications. If it’s persistent, it’s worth investigating.

3. Discoloured Toenails

Yellow, brittle, or thickened nails may indicate a fungal infection, while dark streaks or sudden changes in nail colour should be checked promptly.

4. Cracked Heels or Dry Skin

While often cosmetic, persistent dryness or deep cracks can signal thyroid imbalance, dehydration, or even eczema.

5. Foot Pain That Won’t Go Away

Chronic pain isn’t something to “just live with.” It could point to biomechanical issues, arthritis, or nerve compression—and it deserves attention.

6. Changes in Foot Shape or Arch

A collapsing arch or shifting toes may be early signs of tendon dysfunction or structural changes, especially as we age.

Why It Matters?

Your feet are a mirror to your overall health. At Accura Podiatry, I look beyond the surface—combining clinical expertise with a calm, caring approach to help you feel better from the ground up.

If you’ve noticed changes in your feet, don’t ignore them. Book a consultation and let’s take a closer look—together.